Accessibility
EcoTarium is committed to making the museum experience accessible to visitors of all physical and mental abilities. Overall, the museum building and much of the grounds are handicap accessible. Please use the following guide to answer your questions about specific special needs, or feel free to call us at (508) 929-2700 or TDD (508) 929-2702.
- Parking
- EcoTarium has designated handicap parking in three areas: our upper lot closest to Sundial Plaza and the Visitor Center, our lower lot closest to the Explorer Express Train, wildlife walkway and Food Pavilion, and in a loading area at the north entrance to the museum.
- Outdoor Paths
- All paths leading to and from museum attractions are graded to meet state and federal specifications and surfaced with macadam or asphalt. While some paths may lead to stairs, all attractions can be reached by alternate, accessible routes.
- Tree Canopy Walkway
- This treetop structure takes advantage of a natural ledge to provide a wheelchair accessible bridge to two research stations, where visitors can observe forest life in the leaf line; 40 feet above ground.
- Explorer Express Train
- In 1999, EcoTarium added a custom-built coach to its narrow-gauge train ride which accommodates two passengers in wheelchairs and their companions. Passengers board this coach via a ramp lowered to the ground.
- Nature Trails
- Portions of EcoTarium's Lower Pond Vibram Walking Trail and Meadow Trail are graded for wheelchair accessibility, including access to the Lower Pond Pier, where special programming is sometimes offered.
- Inside the Museum
- The north entrance on the lower level is equipped with power-assisted doors. An elevator accesses the museum's three levels. Ramps provide access to the Fuller Orientation Theater and the Telecommunications Center. Handicap accessible restrooms are found on the middle and lower levels, as well as outdoors at the Food Pavilion.
- The Hirsh Telecommunications Center
- The Hirsh Telecommunications Center is equipped with an Assistive Listening System, and has Open Captioning for certain programs. Open Captioning is also available in the Fuller Orientation Theater. With advance notice, we may be able to arrange for sign language interpreters for special school and public programs.
EcoTarium's exhibits and programs encourage exploration using the senses of sight, hearing and touch. They are designed to be enjoyed on many levels of physical and mental ability.